GM to Discontinue Silverado and Sierra Option
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In December 2003, GM will cease production of all 2500 Series Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Regular Cab and Extended Cab pickup truck models with Regular Production Option (C6P) 8,600 LB GVWR. These trucks can be identified as model numbers *C25903 and *K25753 ordered with option C6P. October 10, 2003 is the final order due date for the above models with the 8600 LB GWVR option C6P. GM said it will continue to accept orders beyond the final order due date on a "will-try" basis. It is important to note, however, that there is a high risk that orders submitted after October 10, 2003 will not be produced. When production ends in late November 2003, Regular and Extended Cab models with C6P will no longer be produced. To help ensure scheduling, please place final orders by no later than Tuesday October 7, 2003. Beyond the deadline for the C6P option, GM recommends ordering the Silverado or Sierra 2500HD model as an alternative to the regular 2500 series with an 8600 LB GVWR option. The standard GVWR on the 2500HD series is 9200 LBS for both the Regular and Extended Cab models. |
| Volvo Cars of North America, Inc. is offering an Early Order Incentive to all eligible fleet customers with a valid Ford FIN code. The incentive is available on all 2004 Volvo orders (except XC90) placed from June 1, 2003 through September 30, 2003 and delivered by December 31, 2003. The Early Order Incentive amount is $200 per eligible vehicle. |
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In order to make way for the all-new 2005 Mercury Mariner, which is based on the Ford Escape, as well the 2005 Escape Hybrid, Ford Motor Company will end production of the 2004 Escape on December 12, 2003. The final order due date for this model is October 17, 2003. The 2005 Escape will receive minor freshening and is expected to go into production on December 15th with a tentative order bank opening date of September 25th. To help ensure scheduling, please submit final orders for the 2004 Escape by no later than Tuesday October 14, 2003. Sources at Ford said that the automaker decided to bring out the 2005 Escape early so its launch would not overlap the introduction of the 2005 Escape Hybrid and 2005 Mercury Mariner, which are both due at dealerships next summer. |
GM Updates OnStar Availability
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In order to accurately reflect various new package additions and deletions, GM has released an updated OnStar availability chart. The revised chart is included as an insert in the hardy copy edition of this issue of the ARI Purchasing News. Online, the revised chart can be found in the "GM OnStar for 2004" section of the Purchasing News. |
GM has announced pricing for the all-new 2004 Colorado and Canyon pickup models, which are both scheduled to go into production on October 8th. Colorado will start at $16,200 MSRP for the base two-wheel-drive Regular Cab. Canyon has a starting MSRP of $16,530 for the SL two-wheel-drive. Both prices include a $635 destination charge. Popular options, such as power locks, power windows, electronically controlled outside mirrors and remote keyless entry are available in the Power Convenience Group for $500. An available Comfort Convenience Group offers a tilt steering wheel and cruise control for $395. Additional options include side-curtain air bags (starting at $195), XM Satellite Radio ($325), OnStar ($695), trailer hitch and wiring ($255) and traction control for two-wheel-drive models with the G80 locking differential ($295). Standard equipment includes a locking, removable, dual-position tailgate; four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS); and driver and front passenger frontal air bags with dual-stage inflators. Air conditioning is optional on fleet models. 2004 Colorado and Canyon pickups will be built at GM's Shreveport, LA assembly plant. |
Ford Continues to Offer Taurus Rapid Order Fulfillment Program
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Ford Motor Company has distributed a reminder that the Taurus Rapid Order Fulfillment Program continues to be available for the 2004 Model Year. Fleet accounts with a valid Fleet Identification Number (FIN) are eligible for the program. Rapid Order Taurus units are available in a variety of trim levels and color selections. For a limited time, no-charge ABS will be available, as well as an Early Order Incentive of $500. All current National Fleet Incentives also apply. The target delivery period for a Rapid Order Taurus unit is approximately 15 days, depending on the location. Fleet Customers that are registered at www.fleet.ford.com can view the inventory list for vehicle selection under the "Ordering Information" tab found on the website. Those who are not registered should contact their ARI Client Support Services Representative for assistance. |
DaimlerChrysler Launches New Corporate Web Site
| DaimlerChrysler’s newly revamped Web site made its online debut on September 2, 2003. The new site, www.daimlerchrysler.com, informs users about the latest developments at DaimlerChrysler in the areas of business, technology, brands and products and provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Company’s structure. The site also helps to disseminate news to investors, analysts and existing and potential customers. Over the next few months, DaimlerChrysler’s 19 regional country Web sites will begin to be revised to match the new look and feel of the global Web site, while providing select company news targeted for specific markets. The ultimate goal of the re-designed Internet sites is to establish a globally-uniform Web presence for DaimlerChrysler in all markets by the end of 2004, the automaker said. |
2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx Pricing Announced - $22,225
The all-new 2004 Malibu Maxx, which arrives in Chevrolet dealerships in December, will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $22,225 for the LS model (includes a dealer freight charge of $625). The five-door Malibu Maxx is offered in LS and LT trim levels. The LT carries an MSRP of $24,725 and a fully equipped LT with all of the available options is $27,075. Malibu Maxx LS standard features include a 3500 V-6 engine; anti-lock brakes with traction control; cruise control; power windows and door locks; power driver seat height adjuster; tilt/telescoping steering wheel; power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals; fold flat passenger seat; power outside rearview mirrors; and manual driver-side lumbar support. The Malibu Maxx LS also features a rear seat that slides nearly 7 inches fore and aft; split 60/40 rear seat back and seat cushion; reclining rear seat backs; fixed-rear glass skylight; and remote keyless entry. The LT model features the industry's first factory installed remote vehicle starter system; side curtain air bags; automatic climate control; heated front seats; leather-trimmed seats; leather steering wheel and shifter; steering wheel radio controls; rear audio control; six-way power driver's seat; fog lamps; and front passenger lighted vanity mirror. Optional features includes a rear DVD entertainment system, power sunroof, six-CD changer, OnStar and XM Radio. Malibu sedan pricing was released in July. The sedan is available in three trim levels including a standard model, LS and LT packages. The standard sedan features a four-cylinder engine and the LS and LT trim levels include a standard V-6 engine. The MSRP for the standard model is $18,995 (includes $625 dealer freight charge), the LS model is $20,995 and the Malibu LT is $23,495. The MSRP for a fully equipped Malibu LT with all of the available options is $25,575. |
E-Series 6.0L Power Stroke Diesel Engine Delayed
The launch of the all-new 2004 E-Series 6.0L Power Stroke Diesel engine has been delayed until January 2, 2004, Ford recently announced. The engine, along with a new TorqShift 5-Speed Transmission, will replace the 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel engine, which will be discontinued in September 2003 for the E-Series. The TorqShift Automatic Transmission will be standard and available only with the new 6.0L Power Stroke Diesel Engine. The new engine and transmission combination will be available on the following 2004 E-Series models:
Diesel engines will not be available on 2004 E-Series models from September 15, 2003 through January 2, 2004. |
Mazda Announces 2004 Mazda6 Pricing
Mazda recently announced that its 2004 Mazda6 model will start at a base MSRP of $18,750 for the "i" series with a 5-speed manual transmission, and $21,345 for the "s" series with a manual transmission. Destination charges are an additional $520. A 4-speed automatic transmission is available on the "i" for $850 MSRP. The "s" offers a 5-speed automatic transmission for $900 MSRP. While the new Mazda6 is a carryover model from the previous year, there are a few minor changes for the 2004 Model Year. All Mazda6 "s" models will now have 17-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment. The 17" alloy wheels will also be available on the "i" when ordered with the Sport Package. In addition, all Mazda6 models will now have a roof-mounted antenna replacing the in-glass antenna and all models now offer the Sport Package with or without the rear spoiler. The Sport Package will also be available in a choice of interior colors, beige or gray, depending on the selected exterior color. The 2004 Mazda6 offers two new exterior colors: Pebble Ash and Blazing Copper Metallic. In addition to the color changes, there are additional option and accessory changes. Please refer to the ARI PriceNet system for current specifications. |
Download Feature News Word Document
| CARS |
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| Year |
Make |
Cyl |
Model |
Dr |
Location |
Invoice |
Ref # |
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| Year |
Make |
Cyl |
Model |
Location |
Invoice |
Ref # |
| 03 | Chevy | 8 | G3500 Express Passenger Van | Huntington Beach, CA | $25,836 | Multiple |
| 03 | Ford | 6 | Explorer 4DR 4x4 XLT | Ivel, KY | $24,965 | 914158 |
| 04 | Ford | 10 | F450 Chassis Cab 4x2 | Tustin, CA | $25,008 | 19101 |
| When
a "stock purchase" is desired, you may consider using a vehicle
from the ARI "pool" to save money and time.
Call your ARI representative for details! |
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2003 MODEL YEAR
FINAL ORDER DATES & 2004 MODEL YEAR PLANT STARTUP DATES
DaimlerChrysler
Model 2003 Final Order Due Date* 2004 Order Bank Open Date*
2004 Production Startup*
Cars/Minivans
Sebring Sedan, Convertible
2003 order banks closed
Open
1/21/03
Stratus Sedan
2003 order banks closed
Open
1/21/03
Sebring/Stratus Coupe
Sebring/Stratus Coupe 2003 order banks closed
TBD
TBD
Neon
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
Concorde, Intrepid, 300M
2003 order banks closed
**
**
2004 Concorde, Intrepid, 300M 2004 order banks closed ** ** Special Paint: Intrepid Police, Special Service
2003 order banks closed
TBD
TBD
Voyager, Caravan, Grand Caravan
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
Town & Country, AWD
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
2004 Pacifica N/A Open 1/16/03 Trucks
Grand Cherokee
2003 order banks closed
Open
1/1/03
Durango
2003 order banks closed
TBD
TBD
Wrangler
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
Liberty
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/7/03
DR Ram 1500
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/28/03
DR Ram 2500
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/28/03
DR Ram 3500
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/28/03
Special Equipment: Ram Regular Pickup, Quad Cab 2003 order banks closed Open 7/28/03 Dakota Regular Pickup, Quad Cab, Club Cab
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/28/03
Special Equipment: Dakota Regular Pickup, Quad Cab, Club Cab 2003 order banks closed Open 7/28/03 Ram Vans
2003 order banks closed
N/A
Discontinued
Special Equipment: Ram Vans 2003 order banks closed N/A Discontinued PT Cruiser
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/23/03
* Final order dates, startup dates and order bank opening dates are subject to change. To ensure consideration for production when placing final orders, orders must be placed in the DaimlerChrysler Order System by the above mentioned dates. Actual production, however, is subject to capacity limitations. Please submit your orders to ARI at least 3 business days prior to the final order date.
**Anticipated production start-up of the replacement vehicle for Concorde, Intrepid and 300M, based on DaimlerChryslerís new LX platform, is first quarter 2004.
Ford, Lincoln & Mercury
Model
2003 Final Order Due Date*
2004 Order Bank Open Date*
2004 Production Startup*
Cars/Minivans
LS
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/14/03
Town Car
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/14/03
ZX2
2003 order banks closed
N/A
Discontinued
Crown Victoria
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
Crown Victoria Police
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
Crown Victoria Natural Gas (CNG)
2003 order banks closed
Open
January 2004
Grand Marquis
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
Marauder N/A Open TBD Mustang
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Focus
2003 order banks closed
Open
9/22/03
Taurus
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Sable
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Taurus/Sable Flex Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
T-Bird
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/14/03
Windstar Wagon 2003 order banks closed N/A Discontinued Windstar Cargo Van (A54) 2003 order banks closed N/A
Discontinued
Windstar 3-Door Wagon (A50) 2003 order banks closed N/A Discontinued Freestar (replaces Windstar) N/A Open 8/25/03 Monterey (replaces Villager) N/A Open 8/25/03 Trucks
Econoline Van/Wagon/Cutaway
2003 order banks closed
Open
9/15/03
Econoline Van/Wagon/Cutaway Dedicated Nat. Gas
2003 order banks closed
Open
January 2004
F-Series Light Duty – Super Crew (all-new F-150)
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/21/03
F-Series Light Duty – Super Cab and Regular Cab "Heritage"
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/18/03
F-Series Light Duty – Super Cab and Regular Cab (all-new F-150) N/A Open 6/9/03 F-Series Super Duty 2003 order banks closed Open 7/14/03 F-Series SD Strip Chassis 2003 order banks closed Open 8/4/03 F150 Bi-Fuel CNG
2003 order banks closed
Open
11/10/03
F150 Dedicated CNG 2003 order banks closed Open 9/15/03 F150 LPG 2003 order banks closed Open 11/10/03 Escape **
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/9/03
Ranger
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Ranger FFV 2003 order banks closed N/A Discontinued Navigator
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Expedition
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Explorer 4DR
2003 order banks closed
Open
8/4/03
Mountaineer 2003 order banks closed Open 8/4/03 Explorer Sport
2003 order banks closed
N/A
Discontinued
Explorer Sport Trac 2003 order banks closed Open 8/4/03 Excursion
2003 order banks closed
Open
7/14/03
Aviator 2003 order banks closed Open 8/18/03 F650/750
2003 order banks closed
Open
12/9/02
* Some model lines may have varying buildout/startup dates depending on which assembly plant the vehicle is produced at. The dates shown above represent the earliest tentative buildout/startup date for each model. Models that may have varying dates include: Taurus/Sable, Explorer/Mountaineer, F-Series LD, F-Series SD and Ranger. All dates are tentative and may change without notice. Selected options may be balanced out earlier due to high demand and capacity shortages. Ford’s acceptance of an order is not a production commitment.
**The 2004 Escape will have a short Model Year run. The tentative 2004 final order due date is 10/17/03. The tentative 2005 Job #1 is 12/15/03.
GM
Division
Model
2003 Final Order Due Date*
2004 Order Bank Open Date *
2004 Production Startup *
Cars
Buick
Century
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/19/03
Regal
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/19/03
LeSabre
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/5/03
Park Avenue
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/5/03
Cadillac
Seville
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/20/03
Deville
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/20/03
CTS 2003 order banks closed Open 6/9/03 XLR
N/A
Open
5/5/03
Chevrolet
Malibu Classic
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/2/03
Malibu (all-new) N/A Open 8/11/03 Malibu Maxx N/A TBD TBD Impala
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/19/03
Impala Police/Taxi
2003 order banks closed
Open
TBD
Monte Carlo
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/19/03
Cavalier
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/9/03
Cavalier w/KL6 CNG Bi-Fuel Eng. 2003 order banks closed Open TBD Corvette
TBD
Open
6/23/03
Oldsmobile
Alero
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/4/03
Aurora
2003 order banks closed
N/A
Discontinued
Pontiac
Sunfire
5/6/03
Open
6/9/03
Grand Am
2003 order banks closed
Open
6/02/03
Grand Prix
2003 order banks closed
Open
2/3/03
Bonneville
2003 order banks closed
Open
10/15/03
Bonneville GXP N/A 9/29/03 Dec - 03 Vibe 2003 order banks closed Open 5/5/03 Trucks/Minivans
Chevrolet
Tracker
TBD
Open
6/16/03
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